Messi and Ronaldo are regarded as the two best players on the planet, with the former seen as the dominant figure. Messi has won the FIFA Ballon d'Or for the past two years and is the favourite to scoop it for a third time - having also won it in its previous guise in 2009.

Evra, though, feels it should be Ronaldo who picks up the prize in 2012 on account of his brilliant efforts in leading Real Madrid to the Liga title last season.

"Ronny is an incredible player, the best in the world," Evra told MUTV. "He is better than Messi. It is not because he is my friend or that I played with him but he has everything.

"Messi is unbelievable but Ronaldo does it on his own. In Madrid he has to score the goals and create them. At Barcelona, Messi has Xavi and Iniesta."

Ronaldo is due to make his return to Old Trafford when United meet Real in the last 16 of the Champions League next year.

Evra is eagerly anticipating facing Ronaldo in the Champions League, expressing his hope that he lines up on Real's right so they lock horns.

"I hope he plays on my side," Evra said. "He knows from training what a tough defender I am. I know how to catch him. I know he can make the difference at any time but the emotion means it will be really difficult for him."